Part of Types of pests

Crop insect resources

Learn about the different types of insects that can affect Alberta crops – from crop pests to beneficial insects.

Introduction

A wide range of insects affect cultivated crops and rangeland grasses throughout Alberta.

The Alberta Insect Pest Monitoring Network provides timely, accurate insect management information and resources to support Alberta’s agricultural industry. The network partners with Agricultural Fieldmen, Applied Research Associations, researchers, agronomists, producers and government staff to monitor and survey for crop insect pests.

Crop insect pests

In addition to crop diseases, invasive weeds and vertebrate pests, insect pest species can cause major crop losses. Some have been declared provincially or federally regulated pests, as they pose a threat to Alberta’s environment, economy and society. All major crop insect pests in Alberta require active monitoring, surveying and forecasting.

Invasive species

These insect pest species can cause major crop and ornamental plant loss. While few are known to have established in Alberta, have been detected in other Canadian provinces. But it’s still important to familiarize yourself with these potential invasive insects and watch for them.

Horticulture pests

Greenhouse crop production brings its own challenges in terms of controlling pests, and primarily involves sanitization and biological control.

Surveys and maps

Insects that cause major crop losses in the province are actively monitored, surveyed and predicted by the Alberta Insect Pest Monitoring Network.

Beneficial insects

A number of insects are natural enemies of harmful crop pests. The following resources provide information on how beneficial insects can help protect your crops, and how you can encourage them to thrive.

Related publications

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